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Drilling Optimization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Directional Drilling Technician

Elko, NV ยท On-site

$23.50 - $29/hr

Adjust the Devidrill for optimal performance * Move Devidrill and survey tools to Drill rig * Instruct Drill crew to pull rods once tool is ready * Once rods are on deck perform a rod count to ensure ...

Field Service - Drilling Sites

Converse, LA ยท On-site

$86K - $95K/yr

... focus to ensure optimal functionality and operational continuity on the drilling site ... RESPONSIBILITIES: * Perform routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on drilling rigs and ...

Drilling Technician (3rd Shift)

South Plainfield, NJ ยท On-site

$20.50 - $25.25/hr

Maintain drill bits by replacing any worn or damaged ones to ensure optimal performance and hole quality. * Monitor the drilling process to ensure the quality of the holes being drilled. * Perform ...

Driller

Mount Juliet, TN

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Performs routine maintenance and inspections on drilling equipment to ensure optimal performance. * Reports any equipment issues or malfunctions immediately. * Coordinate with Licensed Blaster on ...

Well Operation Optimization Engineer Location: 701 W 8TH AVE, Anchorage Pay rate: $36-$42/hr shift ... The main responsibilities will be to: -Monitor all real-time drilling/completion parameters per ...

Driller

Mount Juliet, TN ยท On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Performs routine maintenance and inspections on drilling equipment to ensure optimal performance. * Reports any equipment issues or malfunctions immediately. * Coordinate with Licensed Blaster on ...

Driller

Mount Juliet, TN ยท On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Performs routine maintenance and inspections on drilling equipment to ensure optimal performance. * Reports any equipment issues or malfunctions immediately. * Coordinate with Licensed Blaster on ...

Driller

Mount Juliet, TN ยท On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Performs routine maintenance and inspections on drilling equipment to ensure optimal performance. * Reports any equipment issues or malfunctions immediately. * Coordinate with Licensed Blaster on ...

Performance Driller and Trainer

Alachua, FL ยท On-site

$20.75 - $28.25/hr

Demonstrate drills during trials and support customers through startups and performance optimization initiatives. * Analyze drilling performance metrics (quality, time, cost) and benchmark results ...

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Drilling Optimization information

See salary details

$16K

$55.8K

$102K

How much do drilling optimization jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for drilling optimization in the United States is $55,794.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Drilling Optimization, and why are they important?

To excel in Drilling Optimization, you need a solid background in petroleum engineering or a related field, along with experience in drilling operations and data analysis. Proficiency with drilling simulation software, real-time monitoring systems, and knowledge of industry standards such as API and ISO are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals collaborate and respond swiftly to operational challenges. These competencies are crucial for improving drilling efficiency, minimizing costs, and ensuring safe, successful drilling projects.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Drilling Optimization, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Professionals in Drilling Optimization often face challenges such as fluctuating geological conditions, maintaining real-time data accuracy, and balancing cost-efficiency with safety and performance. These issues can be effectively managed by leveraging advanced analytics tools, fostering close collaboration with drilling engineers and geologists, and participating in continuous training on the latest optimization technologies. Staying proactive in communication and regularly reviewing drilling data helps teams quickly adapt strategies and maximize well productivity.

What is drilling optimization?

Drilling optimization is the process of improving drilling operations to maximize efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize risks in oil and gas extraction. It involves analyzing data from drilling activities, identifying inefficiencies or problems, and implementing solutions such as adjusting drilling parameters or using advanced technologies. The goal is to achieve faster drilling rates, lower non-productive time, and safer operations while maintaining well integrity. Drilling optimization professionals work closely with engineers and field teams to continuously monitor and refine drilling processes. By leveraging real-time data and innovative techniques, they help companies achieve better results and higher returns on investment.

What is the difference between Drilling Optimization vs Drilling Engineer?

AspectDrilling OptimizationDrilling Engineer
Primary FocusImproving drilling efficiency, reducing costs, optimizing drilling parametersDesigning, planning, and supervising drilling operations
CredentialsTechnical certifications, engineering backgroundEngineering degree, professional engineering license
Work EnvironmentField and office, data analysis, real-time decision makingField supervision, project planning, coordination
Industry UsageOil & gas, mineral explorationOil & gas, energy sector

Drilling Optimization specialists focus on enhancing drilling performance through data analysis and process improvements, while Drilling Engineers are responsible for designing and managing drilling projects. Both roles require technical expertise and industry experience, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

More about Drilling Optimization jobs
What cities are hiring for Drilling Optimization jobs? Cities with the most Drilling Optimization job openings:
What states have the most Drilling Optimization jobs? States with the most job openings for Drilling Optimization jobs include:
Infographic showing various Drilling Optimization job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 42% Physical, 12% Hybrid, and 46% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,794 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Directional Drilling Technician

IMDEX

Elko, NV โ€ข On-site

$23.50 - $29/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description:

About IMDEX


IMDEX is a leading global Mining-Tech company with a market cap of $1.1 billion+. Via our market leading AMC, REFLEX and Devico brands, IMDEX enables successful and cost-effective operations from exploration to production, in both surface and underground applications. Our operations span North America, South America, APAC, Europe and Africa.

At IMDEX we provide a unique solution stack extending from drilling productivity tools to rock knowledge sensors through to our data management and analytics offering. Together this stack enables our clients to drill faster and smarter, obtain accurate subsurface data and receive critical information in real-time. The ultimate value this delivers is in enabling our drilling and resource company customers to maximize economic benefit in the identification, delineation and extraction of mineral resources globally.


The opportunity


General daily activities

  • Represent the Company in a professional manner
  • Update client on drilling progress
  • Discuss drilling issues with drill contractorโ€™s representatives
  • Monitor drill progress including special operations
  • Keep an eye on ground conditions for any obvious issues
  • Notify all personnel if problematic conditions for the Directional tooling are encountered

Office duties

  • Complete a daily shift report of shift's activities
  • Charge materials as they are used using the proper serial number
  • Bring reports to client and have them signed
  • Return signed copies to Company management
  • Complete inventory count
  • Update inventories
  • Order parts
  • Update survey files and hole traces with data collected
  • Update project planning with changes from the client
  • Make decisions on how far they can drill prior to directional input
  • Write full and precise bi-weekly drilling reports
  • Report any issues that arise to management in a timely manner
  • Maintain a clean and organized filing system on Company laptops provided for work
  • Ensure notes are made for persons replacing you during your time off

Shop duties and directional drilling operation

  • Inspect the Devidrill prior to and after a cut
  • Change parts if necessary
  • Document any changes made to the tool
  • Adjust the Devidrill for optimal performance
  • Move Devidrill and survey tools to Drill rig
  • Instruct Drill crew to pull rods once tool is ready
  • Once rods are on deck perform a rod count to ensure the depth of the hole is properly marked
  • Make sure to properly explain how to lower the Devidrill system
  • Prepare and perform surface test to check functionality and condition of directional tooling and drilling equipment
  • Have drill crew lower the tool
  • Set orientation of directional tooling according to drill plan
  • Supervise and assist the drill crew in the operation of the directional tooling
  • Analyze survey data and take necessary actions to achieve the planned drill path
  • Have drill crew retrieve tool when drill path is achieved
  • Check directional tooling and prepare for next cut
Requirements:

To be successful

  • Heavy equipment operation: 1 year (Preferred)
  • Diamond drilling and directional drilling experience: 2 years (Preferred)
  • CDL A (Preferred)
  • Ability to travel across North America
  • Requires technical thinking, and the ability to read standards and schematics.
  • Must be able to lift and/or move 50 pounds
  • Standing, walking including and primarily on uneven surfaces, turning, stooping, kneeling, crouching, speaking and hearing are required continuously
  • Employee will be subjected to outside weather conditions
  • Employee could be exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, cold, heat and humidity.
  • The noise level in the work environment can often be loud
  • The employee is frequently exposed to slow- or fast-moving traffic in the work environment

Why IMDEX is an Exciting Place to Work

At IMDEX we call it the โ€˜X Factorโ€™. We have leading geoscience and engineering capabilities; world-class IP, product development, manufacturing facilities, precision instrumentation, an exciting pipeline of industry-changing technologies. Our global presence and client network is unparalleled. We have a fun and diverse team that is encouraged to be innovative, speak-up and contribute to the ongoing success of our company.

We offer high caliber candidates:

  • A working environment that values innovation and creativity
  • The opportunity to work with a team of industry experts to deliver market leading technologies
  • Paid parental leave
  • 100% Employee monthly Health Care Premium Covered
  • An industry competitive salary
  • Flexible working arrangements
  • Career progression opportunities

IMDEX is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to employing a diverse workforce and providing a workplace of respect and inclusiveness. IMDEXโ€™s Board places great emphasis on ensuring our company is a safe, high performing and welcoming workplace.

The information submitted during the recruitment process will be stored and processed as per IMDEX Limited Privacy Policy found at https://www.IMDEXlimited.com/page/privacy-policy

Agency calls and candidates will not be considered.